West Virginians at higher risk for DUI stops this month

Dec 19, 2014

West Virginians at higher risk for DUI stops this month

Posted By
Sutton & Janelle, PLLC

No matter where you live in West Virginia, chances are good that youâve
seen more law enforcement officers out on the stateâs roads and
highways recently. You might have also noticed an increase in the number
of DUI checkpoints.

This increased enforcement period occurs multiple times of year around
holidays associated with higher rates of drunk driving. And with Christmas
and New Yearâs coming up in the next couple weeks, there is no
question that we are in a period of increased DUI enforcement.

Itâs all part of a âHoliday Blitzâ campaign sponsored
by the Governorâs Highway Safety Commission. Money has been allocated
to law enforcement agencies across the state to pay overtime hours and
other costs associated with maintaining a greater law enforcement presence.

What does this mean for drivers in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties? For
starters, it means that you are much more likely to be pulled over for
a variety of offenses, including but not limited to
drunk driving. It also means that you should be especially careful and conscientious
if your holiday plans include the consumption of alcohol.

If you will be attending holiday parties where alcohol is served, for instance,
itâs a good idea to arrange alternative transportation if you
plan to drink at all. Securing a designated driver is often the preferred
option for holiday revelers, but you can also take advantage of public
transportation such as a bus or taxi.

Getting pulled over does not necessarily mean youâll be charged
with DUI or other offenses, but the risk is certainly higher than normal.
And although you may be able to fight drunk-driving charges (especially
if they were unwarranted), it is easier to just avoid suspicion in the
first place, when possible.

That being said, if you are facing charges of drunk driving, you need to
be proactive. To that end, please seek the help of an experienced criminal
defense attorney right away.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.